PRAYERS IN ROME FOR EARTHQUAKE VICTIMS

The earthquake in Central Italy which killed more than 200 people was felt in Rome and special prayers were said in the daily eucharist in the city’s Anglican church of All Saints.

The Chaplain, Canon Jonathan Boardman, reports that the quake was twice as strong as the one that hit Assisi in 1997 and although it is unlikely that parishioners or regular worshippers in Rome will have suffered directly its effect was clearly felt in the capital.

The day after the earthquake, Canon Boardman wrote: “Aquila is 70 kms from Rome. We felt the tremor very distinctly. I almost fell out of bed. We offered prayers at daily eucharist and all celebratory events have been cancelled today in town.”       

The congregation in Rome, in common with many other individuals and organizations in Italy will be looking to help disaster appeals as rehabilitation and rebuilding work begins.            

The two bishops in the Diocese in Europe have supported church members in the 25 Anglican congregations in Italy with assurances of their prayers as the country is in shock and mourning.